Community Computers, part of Stockport’s Digiknow network helping people get online, have announced that they are able to offer laptops and desktop PC’s local residents from £50 until December 2022 in response to the rising cost of living in the UK.
Chris Bennett, Digital Inclusion Project Manager at Community Computers explained:
“Not being able to get online means people can become more socially isolated and are less likely to access essential support services. There is a real digital divide – the need for low-cost and accessible, quality digital devices is greatest amongst those with limited financial means”
Without technology, 1 in 5 people in Stockport have little or no access to the internet, many of whom are on a low income or unemployed. It is estimated that 1 in 3 of those digitally excluded lack access to digital equipment.
A project of local charity, Renewal North West, Community Computers exists to tackle digital exclusion, unemployment and e-waste through repairing and refurbishing donated tech – they are working with Stockport Council and the Digiknow network to help get Stockport online.
One resident who has benefitted from a refurbished device said:
“It’s incredibly helpful to have received this laptop. It’s enabled me to complete an online course that otherwise I would have struggled to do. It will enable my older school child to get any computer or online school work done and when I try to return to work later this year when my youngest starts school it will be a big help then as for health reasons I may end up needing to work from home/be computer/internet based which would not be possible without this laptop.”
For support or questions on accessing devices, or should you wish to donate devices to the project, you can contact Community Computers on 0161 476 2777 or through their website. Further help in getting online for you or someone you know can also be found on the Stockport Council website.
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